The best woods for outdoor furniture are teak, cedar, acacia, and redwood. These species are naturally durable and weather-resistant, making them strong choices for outdoor tables, chairs, and benches. The right wood depends on your budget, style preference, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do.
What Qualities Make Wood Good for Outdoor Furniture?
Outdoor furniture needs to handle sun, rain, and changing temperatures. A few key traits separate the best woods from the rest:
- Density and hardness for long-term durability
- Natural resistance to rot, insects, and moisture
- Ability to withstand weather with minimal warping or cracking
- Manageable maintenance needs (sealing, oiling, or staining)
Understanding these qualities helps when comparing different types of wood.
Teak: The Longest-Lasting Choice
Teak is widely considered the best wood for outdoor furniture. It contains natural oils that make it highly resistant to moisture, rot, and pests. Properly cared for, teak furniture can last 50 years or more.
New teak has a golden-brown color that slowly weathers to silver-gray outdoors. Many homeowners appreciate this natural patina, though sealing or oiling will preserve the original tone. The main drawback is cost — teak is expensive, but its longevity makes it a worthwhile investment.
Cedar: Lightweight and Affordable
Cedar is another popular option. It’s naturally resistant to rot and insects, though not as dense or long-lasting as teak. With proper care, cedar furniture usually lasts 10–15 years outdoors.
Cedar is lightweight, easy to work with, and has a warm reddish-brown look with natural knots. It costs less than hardwoods, making it a good choice for budget-friendly projects or DIY builds.
Acacia, Redwood, and Other Strong Choices
- Acacia: Dense, durable, and far less expensive than teak. Needs sealing to prevent cracking.
- Redwood: Resistant to insects and moisture with a striking color and grain. Less available and often more expensive.
- Eucalyptus/Shorea: Often marketed as teak alternatives. Strong and weather-resistant but require regular sealing.
These alternatives provide flexibility for different budgets and design preferences.
Teak vs. Cedar: Which Is Better?
Many buyers compare teak and cedar directly. The right choice depends on your priorities:
- Lifespan: Teak can last decades. Cedar usually lasts 10–15 years.
- Cost: Teak is premium-priced. Cedar is more affordable.
- Maintenance: Both need sealing, but cedar often requires more frequent upkeep.
- Use Case: Teak is ideal for luxury or long-term projects. Cedar suits lighter, budget-friendly builds.
If you want furniture that will last a lifetime, teak is the better choice. If you need a lighter, less expensive option, cedar works well.
How to Maintain Outdoor Wood Furniture
Even weather-resistant wood needs care to last. Basic maintenance includes:
- Seal or oil regularly to protect against cracking and fading.
- Cover furniture in bad weather or store it indoors during winter.
- Clean with mild soap and water instead of harsh chemicals.
- Inspect annually for cracks, mold, or insect damage.
Routine care makes a noticeable difference in extending the life of outdoor furniture.
Choosing the Right Wood for Your Outdoor Furniture
The best wood for outdoor furniture depends on your priorities. Teak offers unmatched durability, cedar balances cost and performance, and other options like acacia, redwood, or eucalyptus provide strong alternatives. With regular care, each of these woods can hold up beautifully outside.
At Forest Plywood, we supply contractors, woodworkers, and DIYers with a wide range of hardwoods, softwoods, and specialty products that work well for outdoor projects. Whether you’re building custom patio furniture, outfitting a commercial space, or taking on a backyard DIY project, our team can help you choose the right lumber for lasting results.
Visit our homepage, check our locations, or contact us for expert guidance on selecting the best wood for your next outdoor build.
FAQs About Outdoor Furniture Wood
What is the cheapest wood for outdoor furniture that still lasts?
Cedar is often the most affordable outdoor wood that still performs well. It’s naturally insect- and rot-resistant and can last 10–15 years with proper care. Pine is even cheaper but requires pressure treatment and frequent maintenance to hold up outdoors.
Does outdoor wood furniture need to be sealed every year?
It depends on the wood. Teak and redwood have natural oils that protect them longer, but sealing once every 1–2 years can extend their color and lifespan. Softer woods like cedar or acacia benefit from yearly sealing to prevent cracking or moisture damage.
Can you leave wooden furniture outside in winter?
Yes, but it’s not recommended without protection. Even durable woods like teak or eucalyptus will last longer if covered or stored indoors during harsh winters. Freezing temperatures and moisture can speed up cracking and surface wear.
